Two seasons, many microclimates
Guatemala doesn't have a European-style four seasons. Instead it has a dry season (roughly November to April) and a rainy season or *invierno* (May to October). What really shapes your trip is altitude: the Western Highlands around Antigua, Lake Atitlan and Quetzaltenango sit at 1,500-2,500 m and stay spring-like all year, while the Pacific coast and the jungle department of Peten are hot and humid.
Dry season (November-April): peak weather
This is the most reliable window for sightseeing. Days are sunny, trails to volcanoes like Acatenango and Pacaya are firm, and visibility over Lake Atitlan is at its best. The highlands can be genuinely cold at night, so pack layers for December and January.
- Peak crowds and prices: Christmas/New Year and Easter week
- Best volcano hiking and clear lake views
- Cooler nights in Antigua and the highlands
Shoulder season: best value
The sweet spots are late October to mid-December and late January to March (avoiding Easter). You still get mostly dry, warm days but pay less for hotels in Antigua and find quieter ruins at Tikal.
Rainy season (May-October): green and quiet
Rain usually falls as a heavy afternoon downpour, leaving mornings clear, so travel is still possible. The landscape is lush and you'll have Tikal and Semuc Champey almost to yourself. Avoid September and October, the wettest months when hurricanes can affect the Caribbean side.
Festivals worth planning around
- Semana Santa (Holy Week, March/April): Antigua's processions over sawdust carpets (*alfombras*) are world-famous; book months ahead
- Day of the Dead (1-2 November): giant kites fly at Sumpango and Santiago Sacatepequez
- Quema del Diablo (7 December): Burning of the Devil kicks off Christmas
- Rabin Ajau (late July/August): indigenous beauty and culture festival in Coban
- Fiesta de Santo Tomas (December): a spectacular fair in Chichicastenango
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